Dogs in the snow. Bramble

The weather outside may be frightful, but nothing will convince our gundogs to stay at home. As the snow continues to fall, cancelling sporting days and putting the 4x4s to the test, our shooting companions are still having a fantastic time. As The Field’s favourite dogs in the snow confirms.…

Home-cured salmon with sherry, dill and cranberries

Salmon is a Christmas day essential. But try something a little different this year, with a festive twist on the Nordic dish gravlax. Philippa Davis’ home-cured salmon with sherry, dill and cranberries is a fantastic starter that can be made ahead to reduce any panics on Christmas day. Or serve…

Royal coat of arms

The Royal coat of arms is just one of the fascinating things you may spy in a local church, while your mind wanders wickedly from the sermon. But where did they originate, and how did they develop? Stephen Slater explains. This time of year may seem bleak but the winter…

Angels are integral to our Christmas tradition, from featuring in nativity scenes and carols to adorning the top of the tree, but few are aware of their pre-biblical origins. These mythical messengers are a mixture of Christianity, folklore and marketing – as Ed West explains. To learn more about the…

Log from the black forest

If you are among figgy pudding nay-sayers this Christmas, don’t let them go hungry. Philippa Davis’ log from the black forest is a traditional chocolate yule log with a black forest gateau. It makes a truly spectacular dessert, and is perfect for feeding a crowd. For more sweet treats to…

Country Christmas living room

Christmas is the time of year we love to bring the outside in. Fragrant pine trees are decorated with twinkling fairy lights and placed in the corner of living rooms and the halls are decked with boughs of holly. If you want to achieve a cosy, country Christmas living room…

Potato, apple and horseradish rosti

Serve this potato, apple and horseradish rosti when you have a full house and a lazy morning to spare this Christmas. Whether you save it as a Boxing Day treat or serve on the 25th, follow Philippa Davis’ recipe for an undeniably festive brunch, guaranteed to delight a house full…

Pistachio and cranberry biscotti

These pistachio and cranberry biscotti with spiced hot chocolate dip is a delicious festive treat for when temptation calls. So follow Philippa Davis’ recipe. Make a big batch and save for when an emergency sweet treat is needed. Biscotti is an Italian Christmas staple and incredibly easy to make. Have…

Venison carpaccio, candied pecans and clementine salad

This venison carpaccio, candied pecans and clementine salad will make a fantastically festive starter. With its bright colours and fragrant spices, it is essentially Christmas on a plate. Follow Philippa Davis’ recipe for a special supper party. If you’re game to try something a little different with your venison, put…

Guide to Christmas

Father Christmas may have his elves on hand but for us mere mortals, Christmas can become quite the festive frenzy. With presents to buy, cards to send and a festive feast to plan, shortcuts and simple methods are absolutely necessary. Fortunately, The Field has the answer to every Christmassy question.…